Claytor Lake State Park

Claytor Lake State Park is a 472-acre piece of land that hosts a lot of summer recreation opportunities. Aimed more towards families, this park offers educational programming throughout the summer months geared at children 5-12. If you are an angler, prepare to enjoy yourself immensely. Claytor Lake State Park is home to a vibrant fishing community, and the facilities offered here are top notch. 

There is a full-service marina with docking slips, as well as a fully stocked fishing shop, with boat fuel, supplies, refreshments, bait, and boat rentals if you've come unprepared. Canines are allowed on the outside components of this marina but are prohibited from any indoor facilities. At 4,500-acres Claytor Lake itself is quite massive, with 21 total miles of shoreline to explore. 

Swimming is available at any of six roped off public areas, which are staffed with lifeguards throughout the warmer months. These beaches are open to your canine companion as well, provided you keep them on their leash. Dogs are prohibited from any of the public swimming areas. For long-term travelers, there are a few different options for overnight stays. 

Traditional tent camping is offered with 17 different sites to choose from. There are also three lodges for larger groups, and these come with full modern amenities. Lining the lake are also 15 cabins. These are a bit more rustic, but still come complete with bathroom, kitchen, and air conditioning. Rules regarding overnight stays for canines differ based on the facilities used. 

For more information regarding reservations and pet regulations, call 800-933-PARK (7275) or visit the Virginia State Parks website. A total of seven miles worth of trails wrap around this park, including a 5K cross-country trail that offers excellent training opportunities for both experienced runners and those new to the sport. Your dogs are welcome on these paths, provided you make sure to keep them leashed up and take care of any messes they might make.